NON VIOLENCE (AHIMSA)

[Extracts compiled from Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba's Discourses]

The meaning of Ahimsa is that either in thought, word or deed, you should not cause harm to anybody. What does Ahimsa signify? It is not merely refraining from causing harm or injury to others. It implies also refraining from causing harm to himself. One who harms oneself cannot avoid harming others. How is this to be ensured? By constantly examining whether his conduct is right or wrong. For instance, in the matter of speech, one must examine whether the words are causing pain to others. One must see that the looks are not tainted by evil intentions or thoughts. One should not listen to evil talk. Hence everyone should see that they give no room for bad looks, bad hearing, bad speech, bad thoughts and actions.

You should also be careful with regard to your food. Excessive eating does violence to the body. Moderation is conducive to happiness. Ahimsa is thus what confers happiness on you. When you realize that God is in everyone, you will practice non-violence.

"Ahimsa Paramo Dharma" - Ahimsa is the most meritorious deed. Non violence is an alternate name for Truth and Love. By following Non-violence, one achieves Love. To follow the path of non-violence, it is necessary to change the mental attitude. Nobody should be harmed by mind, body or speech. By purity of thought, word and deed, one should serve even one's enemies. Overwhelm the bad and jealous by your goodness. Humility is the main quality of those who want to don the mantle of non-violence.

-Bhagavan Baba